Looking for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot summer days or quick weeknight dinners? Dive into the delightful world of Cold Tuna Macaroni Salad! This classic American recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with creamy mayonnaise, savory tuna, and crunchy vegetables, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up in just 25 minutes. Whether you're hosting a picnic, a potluck, or simply craving a satisfying meal, this tuna salad is sure to impress. Ready to discover the secrets to making this mouthwatering salad? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of elbow macaroni, 1 can (5 oz) of drained tuna, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of diced celery, 1/4 cup of diced onion, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Drain the canned tuna and set it aside. Dice the celery and onion into small pieces, ensuring they are evenly cut for consistent flavor in the salad.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Allow it to drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, drained tuna, diced celery, and diced onion. Gently fold the ingredients together to mix them evenly without breaking up the tuna too much.
- Add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to the mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the mayonnaise coats everything evenly.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, mix, and taste, adjusting as necessary to achieve your desired flavor.
- Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Taste one more time and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve chilled, garnishing with additional celery or herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it's al dente—this ensures it holds its shape and texture in the salad. Don’t forget to rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process!
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, sweet peas, or even pickles for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your salad before serving! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, and consider adding a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
